Live a Great Story

One thing I have always feared is watching my life pass by without fulfilling my purpose, my passion, or my destiny. I've recently paid close attention to Gary Vaynerchuk, who says it best: “You're doing yourself a disservice to the people you love the most by holding your mouth shut!” Damn. That's pretty honest! Since childhood, I’d made a practice of keeping a quiet lifestyle when it came to personal matters, one that honored the stares and subtle nudges that said, “Don’t speak up.” I always pushed my problems and inner desires to the wayside, moving with the current of being what everyone wanted me to be. I was the “fixer” for everyone else except me. I took challenges head-on with a warrior spirit -- only they were never really my challenges to face. That instilled a sense of loneliness in me -- a wide gap in defining and pursuing my purpose. It wasn’t until recently that I began recognizing the fact that I’m worthy of telling my story. I’m worthy of pushing past old regrets and into a life of light, hope, and joy. And that’s something worth celebrating as we approach a new year.

If you've been following my journey, you’ve probably seen how this past year has been one of challenge and reflection - a battle with the old and the new. I've opened my heart, learned to hold space for myself, and I’ve learned to sit in the uncomfortable. For once, I’ve stood true to myself and pushed forward in a journey of authenticity. I’ve faced some of my biggest fears, and I will continue to face them openly. The most important thing I’ve learned amidst a day and age of “fake” is standing in my truth -- no more interruptions or opportunities to hold me back.

I know the past year has thrown not just me, but many of us, several unwanted curveballs. We’re walking through uncertain times, which presents an opportunity for complaining, or for gratitude. The holidays are a wonderful time for us to come together as a community and express our gratitude through simple, meaningful acts of kindness and generosity. It’s about raw vulnerability, about showing up and being present as who you are. It’s about spending this time in the pause, in the stillness that comes with a grateful spirit. And it’s about connection, allowing doors to be opened through genuine relationships with people.

I’d encourage us to rid ourselves of the distractions and false narratives this holiday season, pushing past old regrets and surrendering to a life of thankfulness and transparency. Remember to live in the present, choose compassion, and stand firm in your truth. Use 2022 to help reprioritize your goals and pursuits holding fast to gratitude and to community.

- Regina ♥